Spotlight On: Marisa Jackson, Agent Success Manager, Realty San Antonio
August 2025 — In an interview with Invest:, Marisa Jackson, agent success manager of Realty San Antonio, said that shifting interest rates and economic uncertainty have significantly impacted the local real estate market. “In the past, there were seasonal trends we could track. Now things are more unpredictable,” Jackson said.
What changes in the past year have had the biggest impact on Realty San Antonio?
I would say that interest rates, the election, and the economic uncertainty have been the biggest factors impacting our business. First, it was the interest rates, then came the election. People were waiting to see if rates would go down, and they didn’t. In the past, there were seasonal trends we could track. Now things are more unpredictable. Those are the main factors.
How has the San Antonio real estate market evolved over the past year?
We’re in a buyer’s market with significant inventory available. Locally, our housing remains relatively affordable compared to other major metros, though affordability concerns persist due to interest rates. Many hesitate to make the leap. However, new construction presents strong opportunities — builders are offering incentives and lower interest rates, attracting first-time homebuyers. Buyers now have more options and can be selective. We advise sellers to make necessary updates for move-in-ready homes, as these still sell quickly. Market conditions vary by neighborhood, emphasizing the need to work with locally knowledgeable partners.
Would you say that having local expertise creates a more transparent and valuable experience for clients?
Yes. Regarding transparency, we’ve counseled many who bought during COVID’s peak when market conditions differed — multiple offers and prices exceeding asking were common. Now, three years later, some expect to sell at those same prices. We often advise renting the home for a few years or waiting longer if no immediate relocation is needed. This situation underscores why working with locally knowledgeable professionals is essential.
What key client trends have you observed, and how are they shaping seller and investor behavior?
Buyers facing higher interest rates can afford less, preferring updated homes without deferred maintenance, with no need for new roofs or AC units, for example. Investors also face challenges: Airbnb profitability has declined slightly, and rental yields aren’t meeting expectations. This market reinforces the need to work with knowledgeable professionals who can guide investment decisions.
How are mixed-use developments reshaping the market and buyer expectations, especially for first-time buyers?
San Antonio still maintains a small-town feel and hasn’t caught up to other major cities’ mixed-use development trends, but that is changing. I live in Boerne, where a new mixed-use development called Lemon Creek Ranch is starting near my neighborhood. We’re gradually moving toward more mixed-use projects. San Antonio takes longer to adopt changes, but people want walkability — restaurants downstairs, walking trails. This need extends beyond downtown areas like the Pearl. We’re seeing these developments in Boerne and potentially Helotes. We’re getting there with mixed-use as demand grows.
Given your experience in residential real estate, how are commercial expansions impacting nearby neighborhoods?
People want accessibility. Those seeking land and separation will find it elsewhere. San Antonio has improved its infrastructure well, with widespread construction across the city. Most prioritize convenience. Smaller cities like Boerne and Helotes effectively advocate for preferred retail options. This hasn’t created negative impacts because the residents voice their preferences clearly.
How do you anticipate San Antonio’s real estate market evolving in the coming years?
San Antonio’s City Council and leaders have been intentional about growth over the past decade. Greater:SATX effectively attracts businesses and retains local talent while managing infrastructure needs. Our traffic isn’t ideal, but it compares favorably to Houston or Austin. This balanced approach makes San Antonio a great place to live. Continuing these smart decisions and staying engaged with local government will ensure we keep thriving, attracting talent and new residents.
Have you noticed any recent policy or legislative changes affecting the residential real estate market?
The city has initiated new affordable housing programs. We’ll need more such efforts to address homelessness, which affects all major cities. Developing low-income housing for unhoused residents remains crucial. The city is actively working on this, even studying approaches from other municipalities. Maintaining this focus will be vital as San Antonio grows over the next decade. There has been mention of legislation regarding private school vouchers, pulling money and funds away from public schools. Public schools are closing, which is controversial, but they’ve talked about utilizing those old buildings for housing, which would be a great opportunity.
How are rising property taxes and insurance premiums affecting investment decisions and property valuations in the current market?
We actively advocate for homeowners to protest their property taxes. When more people carefully review and protest, it benefits all homeowners. This year, we’ve received more calls than ever about property tax protests, with homeowners seeking our expertise. Rising insurance costs also factor significantly into homeownership decisions. It’s not just about qualifying for a mortgage, but also taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. These are real concerns we’re seeing as people evaluate whether homeownership remains a good investment.
It’s important to us that whenever we meet with a buyer, we sit down and have a consultation with them. We talk through everything because we want people to feel comfortable and know the ins and outs of homeownership. We see it and live it every day; they don’t. Especially for first-time homebuyers, it’s important that they understand what homeownership entails.
How has Realty San Antonio adapted its strategy to meet the evolving needs of your sellers, given the changes in the local market?
Our brokerage, Realty San Antonio Compass, is part of Compass, which is national. We’ve started a three-phase marketing strategy over the last year and a half. We market the home off-market while sellers make repairs, using a private MLS in San Antonio. This avoids negative insights on Zillow, like days on market or price changes, allowing sellers to test the waters before going public. We also work with lenders for creative solutions, like seller financing, so buyers can get a low interest rate. These strategies create a win-win for both the buyer and the seller.
How has integrating new technologies into the Compass platform continued to impact agent performance and client satisfaction?
We have something called Insights. Everybody wants insights or data. We send sellers weekly reports showing how many people viewed their property. If we run a digital ad campaign through social media, it provides all the metrics. It shows a map of the United States, indicating where their home is being viewed. They like this information. It shows we’re working hard to make their home visible and well-marketed. It’s nice for them to see the progression over time; if it’s not going under contract, we can adjust collaboratively. That’s one of the great things I’ve loved the most.
How do you see the residential real estate landscape in San Antonio evolving over the next two to three years, and what will be your top priorities?
I wish I had a crystal ball. They keep predicting interest rate drops, and buyers remain hesitant. Eventually, people will recognize homeownership’s value, especially here. San Antonio hasn’t seen depreciation. Our market stays strong with consistent military rotations and growing businesses. The airport expansion and other developments will maintain our thriving real estate market.
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